Scottish Government
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Alcohol consultation responses published
Responses to the Scottish Government's consultation on tackling Scotland's alcohol misuse problem were published yesterday.
Key proposals in the strategy for tackling alcohol misuse include setting a minimum price for a unit of alcohol, raising the off-sales purchase age to 21, an end to irresponsible promotions and a social responsibility fee for some retailers.
A total of 530 responses were received: 260 from individuals, 215 from organisations and 55 from MSPs and other sources.
Public Health Minister Shona Robison said:
"The Scottish Government's proposals for tackling alcohol misuse are unashamedly radical and I therefore welcome the enthusiastic response to our consultation.
"We will take into account all of the views expressed as we develop legislation to address an issue that has an impact on the whole of society.
"We believe that raising the off-sales purchase age would cut the level of uncontrolled open-air and home drinking which we know can result in anti-social behaviour.
"Meanwhile, our proposal for a minimum price for a unit of alcohol will target the high-strength products currently sold for 'pocket money prices' that cause the most damage in our communities and to our health as a nation.
"This is a fair way of making sure the price of drinks better reflects their alcoholic content.
"I believe we have a real opportunity here to bring about a long-term cultural shift to rebalance Scotland's relationship with alcohol, which more and more evidence suggests has got worryingly out of kilter.
"Burying our heads in the sand in the face of this information is not an option. We must take action now to reverse the heavy toll excessive alcohol consumption is taking on our nation's health and wellbeing."
October 5-11 is Alcohol Awareness Week, which is supported by the Scottish Government in partnership with a wide range of alcohol industry organisations. Alcohol Awareness Week is an opportunity for everyone in Scotland to think about how much they're drinking and whether excessive alcohol consumption could be harming them and people around them.
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